In a recent study by the University of Michigan:

​

“Pay-to-play fees for athletics are preventing lower-income children from participating in middle and high school sports, a new study from the University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital shows. Nearly 1 in 5 low-income parents reported that cost forced their child to cut back on sports, said U-M’s National Poll on Children’s Health.” 

​

The Michigan Youth Sports Initiative (MYSI) will assess the inequalities in sports due to the pay-to-play costs that hinder aspiring young athletes from participating in organized sports. To bridge this gap in surrounding communities, MYSI will acquire monetary and in-kind donations from sponsors to provide access to student-led youth teams and programs in the greater Ann Arbor area. 

​

To do this, we will actively reach out to leagues and organizations in the Ann Arbor area to establish MYSI-led programs. We will have an extensive outreach to identify youths who would benefit most from our initiative. This program will include working with local schools, organizations, and established youth sport leagues.

​

Michigan Youth Sport Initiative is sincerely committed to providing opportunity. An opportunity to provide sport - something that has a firm impact on whoever plays it. An opportunity to provide structure, mentorship, and leadership in the lives of youth. An opportunity to ultimately make a difference. MYSI will strive to accomplish our vision.